ISLAMABAD: Government should pay proper attention to exploit treasure buried in Thar to contain energy crisis, cut oil import bill, provide jobs and boost economy, Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry PCCI said.
"This project is a must for revenue generation, future progress and national security of the country; it is the only option for survival", it said in a statement issued here on Monday.
"Lack of coordination between provincial and federal governments has been keeping Thar Coal from alleviate sufferings of people and economy, said Tariq Mehmood, Chairman FPCCI Standing Committee on Health and Director Pak-UK Business Council, FPCCI.
He said Pakistan cannot afford to delay exploitation of one of the world's largest lignite deposits spread over more than 9,000 km.
He added that 175 billion tonnes of coal matching oil reserves of Saudi Arabia and Qatar can ensure energy security for centuries by providing around 100000 MW of electricity.
Tariq Mehmood who is also President Attock Chamber of Commerce and Industry said Pakistan can provide affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity to consumers and earn huge foreign exchange by exporting rich energy resources.
Presently, around 30 per cent of energy is being imported disturbing budget; the oil import bill will swell to 120-130 billion dollars in eight years when we will require 26000 MW to keep the economy moving, he added.
He said the situation calls for urgent and decisive action as the business community and economists have never approved unplanned and short-term measures.
He appealed the Government not to waste skills of reknowned scientist, Dr. Samar Mubarkmand and funds should be provided immediately for Thar coal project to overcome energy crisis in the country.
He was of the view that Germany, China and India are generating 80 per cent, 73 per cent and 63 per cent of electricity on coal against 20MV unit working in our country.
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